2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Arcata, CA vs San Luis Obispo, CA

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Highlights
Are people in San Luis Obispo older or younger than people in Arcata?
- The Median Age in San Luis Obispo is 0.9 years younger than in Arcata.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Luis Obispo or Arcata?
- San Luis Obispo housing costs are 109.9% more expensive than Arcata housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Luis Obispo or Arcata?
- The average commute for residents of San Luis Obispo is 1.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Arcata.

Things to do in Arcata?
Nestled on California’s North Coast just south of Eureka, Arcata offers visitors an array of natural beauty from redwood forests to rugged coastline along with world-class dining experiences like the Alice Copper Restaurant & Brewery. The city hosts a variety of cultural attractions year round from art galleries to live music venues making it a great destination for everyone.

Things to do in San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo, California is located on the Central Coast and offers stunning views of rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean. It's a great place to live with its temperate climate, excellent restaurants and unique shops. Every year locals flock to the famous Thursday night Farmer’s Market or to outdoor festivals like the SLO County Fair. For outdoor activities there are plenty of parks and trails plus beaches for surfing and swimming.

 Arcata, CASan Luis Obispo, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock47,257329,725,481
 Median Income$39,069  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2638.4
 Avg. Home Price$444,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.03  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 11 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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Reviews for San Luis Obispo    21 Reviews

MY FIANCEE AND I ARE LOOKING TO MOVE TO SLO FOR RETIREMENT ( NEXT MONTH ) WE ARE BOTH ARTISTS AND HOPE OUR TALENT WILL HELP WITH COST OF LIVING IN SLO!!! ANY  More

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Over 10 years ago

In almost any season of the year in San Luis Obispo, you’ll find the sun shining and the temperature hitting around 70º at some point in the day. With the temperature  More

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San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas are beautiful, great weather, beaches, farms markets, a downtown area full of some of the best bars and restaurants, wine country,  More

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